Chelsea have landed one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders, completing the signing of Jorrel Hato from Ajax in a deal worth over €40 million.
Jorrel Hato has penned a seven-year contract with the Blues. The agreement includes a sell-on clause, underscoring Ajax’s belief in Hato’s long-term value.
After finalising the move, Hato expressed his delight: “I’m very excited, I’m so happy to be here. I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career. Chelsea is the best place for me to do that.”
Hato arrives with 111 senior appearances for Ajax under his belt, an impressive feat for a teenager. He has already been capped six times by the Netherlands, further highlighting his rapid rise.
Comfortable at both left-back and centre-back, Hato adds versatility to Enzo Maresca’s defensive unit. He will compete with Marc Cucurella, Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana for a starting place.
Hato’s signing continues a busy summer for Chelsea. The club has already added Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Jamie Gittens to the squad. They’ve also welcomed Estevao Willian, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr, and Kendry Paez through prior agreements.
On the flip side, several players have left Stamford Bridge. Goalkeepers Kepa Arrizabalaga and Djordje Petrovic have moved on, alongside attackers Joao Felix, Jadon Sancho, and Noni Madueke.
Hato is widely regarded as one of Europe’s top defensive prospects. Last season, he recorded an 89% pass completion rate, second only to Richy Ledezma among Eredivisie full-backs.
He plays with maturity beyond his years. He is composed in possession, confident on the ball, and shows strong reading of the game. His aerial ability remains a work in progress, but his anticipation and one-on-one defending are already elite.
Maresca values defenders who are comfortable building from the back. Hato’s skillset fits that model perfectly.
At just 19, Hato has the potential to become a long-term pillar in Chelsea’s evolving project. His arrival signals the club’s continued focus on investing in elite youth talent.
